Whether you’ve just recently started playing online or you’ve been gaming for years, it’s always important to keep yourself safe.

While the recently updated Online Safety Act holds websites and gaming platforms accountable for the content they provide, it’s still your responsibility to keep yourself and your personal information safe.

Before getting carried away with the games, you should learn how to stay grounded and sensible. We’ve listed a few things to keep in mind for protecting your own safety and that of other members of the iGaming community.

  • Know when to take breaks

Looking after your health is crucial if you’re sitting behind a screen for extended periods! Even if you’re having fun on the game, it’s worth keeping an eye on the duration of each session.

Monitoring gameplay means you’ll know when to take breaks. Balancing your games with healthy habits means you can lead a healthier lifestyle. Getting outside for a walk could be one of the best ways to spend some time away from the screen: the mood-boosting benefits of nature will leave you feeling more motivated to succeed in the next round!

  • Keep your accounts safe

Strong, unique, and difficult-to-guess passwords are essential, and you should make sure you change them regularly.

But that’s not the only way to bolster your account security when it comes to online gaming. Try to look for platforms with two-factor authentication as an option, making sure you’ve always got that safety net in case anybody else tries to access your account. You could also use a password manager to keep those details extra safe – and so you don’t forget them!

  • Trust the right platforms

While it’s true that some online platforms are more welcoming than others, you should still approach any new site or account with caution. Don’t be fooled by offers that seem too good to be true: if you have a bad gut feeling about something, trust your instincts. If you can’t find any contact details or customer services, consider it a red flag.

Luckily, there are plenty of gaming platforms prioritising safety and wellbeing for players. For example, you can play online bingo games supported by moderators who help on platforms with tailored settings for your safety. Joining a friendly community means you should remember to report any hate or bullying if you see it too.

  • Protect personal data

Lastly, it’s worth remembering that your personal details should be kept confidential. Information like your name, date of birth and address could potentially be highly valuable to an identity thief. If your gaming account is compromised, it wouldn’t take a cybercriminal very long to access your information.

Try to be mindful of in-game purchases, too. Many games offer upgrades and special packages, but it’s worth entering your details carefully if you’re paying for anything online. We also recommend using a different name online, especially if it appears on-screen and other players can see it.

Being proactive

Remember that your decisions matter online. Be careful with what you choose to share and try to be selective with the sites you play on. Keep your devices updated and try to download anti-virus software for your browser. Lastly, don’t forget to bet only within your means. If you’re feeling out of control, it’s probably time to take a break.